Understanding Norovirus

Norovirus, often misnamed as stomach flu, is an extremely contagious virus that causes severe gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting and diarrhoea. Here are some key facts to know about this virus:

• It causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, leading to severe discomfort.
• Symptoms of Norovirus include diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain, nausea, fever, headache, body ache, and other gastrointestinal problems.
• Symptoms usually appear within 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last for 1 to 3 days.
• Norovirus is resistant to many common disinfectants and can survive high temperatures, making it difficult to eliminate.
• It can affect people of all ages, but the elderly, children, and people with existing health conditions are more vulnerable.
• Globally, norovirus is responsible for approximately 200,000 deaths annually, including about 50,000 children.

Transmission of Norovirus

Norovirus can spread rapidly from an infected person to others through direct contact, consumption of contaminated food or water, or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth.

• Infected individuals can shed billions of norovirus particles, and it takes only a few particles to infect others.
• There are multiple types of noroviruses, and immunity to one type does not confer immunity to others, leading to multiple infections throughout life.

Prevention and Treatment of Norovirus

Preventing norovirus infection largely involves maintaining good hygiene practices. Here are some strategies to prevent the spread of this virus:

• Regularly wash hands with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food.
• Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before consumption.
• Be extra cautious when interacting with animals.
• In areas prone to norovirus outbreaks, consider drinking chlorinated water.

While there is no specific treatment for norovirus, the symptoms can be managed:

• Over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms like diarrhoea and vomiting.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially warm water.
• Although the illness can cause significant discomfort, it is usually self-limiting and lasts for 2 to 3 days.